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Drill Rig Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

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Drill Rig Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$12

$26

$48

How much do drill rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for drill rig operator in Indiana is $26.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $29.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a drill rig operator?

As a Drill Rig Operator, your daily responsibilities typically include setting up, operating, and maintaining drilling rigs, monitoring equipment performance, and adhering to strict safety protocols. You'll often work closely with a team of drillers, assistants, and engineers, collaborating to ensure precise drilling according to project specifications. Regular tasks may also involve equipment inspections, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and recording drilling data. The role requires adaptability, as you may work in varying weather conditions and different locations, depending on the project.

What do you need to be a drill rig operator?

To become a drill rig operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with training on operating drilling equipment. Many employers require certification in safety procedures and sometimes a commercial driver's license (CDL) if driving is involved. Hands-on experience and knowledge of machinery are also important for this role.

What is a drill rig operator?

A Drill Rig Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining drilling equipment to bore holes for various purposes, such as mining, construction, or oil and gas extraction. They set up, position, and control drilling rigs, monitor operations, and ensure safety protocols are followed. Operators must have technical knowledge of machinery, the ability to read blueprints, and an understanding of soil and rock formations. The role often requires physical endurance and adherence to strict safety regulations.

How do I become a drill rig operator?

To become a drill rig operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn operating procedures and safety protocols. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the region, and familiarity with machinery, tools, and safety standards is essential for the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drill rig operator?

To thrive as a Drill Rig Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a solid understanding of drilling processes, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with heavy machinery, safety regulations such as OSHA, and certifications like a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and attention to detail are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies enable safe, efficient drilling operations and effective teamwork in demanding outdoor environments.

What are popular job titles related to Drill Rig Operator jobs in Indiana? For Drill Rig Operator jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drill Rig Operator jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Drill Rig Operator jobs in Indiana are:
Drill Rig Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drill Rig Operator job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,112 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Operator - Drill Rig - T Line Drill Crew

Cobalt Civil

Winchester, IN

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

My Account
Career Opportunities >> Operator - Drill Rig - T Line Drill Crew
Operator - Drill Rig - T Line Drill Crew
Summary
Title: Operator - Drill Rig - T Line Drill Crew ID: OPE-DR Department: Operations Location: Winchester, IN
More about this job >
Description

Job Title: Operator - Drill Rig - T Line Drill Crew
Department: Operations
Reports To: Supervisor
Company: Cobalt Civil, LLC
Location: Winchester, IN
Job Type: Full-Time - Hourly
Effective Date: 7/30/2026

Position Summary

Cobalt Civil is seeking a skilled, safety-focused Drill Rig Operator to support our Transmission Line Drill Crew on utility infrastructure projects throughout the Midwest. This position is responsible for safely operating truck-mounted and track-mounted drill rigs used for transmission line foundation construction while assisting the crew with daily field operations.

The ideal candidate has experience operating drilling equipment, working around heavy construction equipment, and maintaining a strong commitment to safety, quality, and productivity. This position requires frequent overnight travel and the ability to work in a physically demanding outdoor environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Safely operate drill rigs and associated equipment used to construct transmission line foundations
  • Perform drilling operations according to project specifications, plans, and supervisor direction
  • Assist with drill setup, tear down, tooling changes, and equipment mobilization
  • Read plans, layouts, and grade information to accurately position and complete foundation locations
  • Work alongside laborers and equipment operators to support drilling, excavation, and concrete foundation activities
  • Load, unload, and organize tools, drill steel, augers, casings, and project materials
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and basic preventative maintenance
  • Identify and report equipment issues requiring repair or maintenance
  • Follow all company safety policies, OSHA requirements, and utility-specific safety procedures
  • Maintain clean, organized equipment and work areas
  • Communicate effectively with supervisors and crew members to ensure safe and efficient operations
  • Travel Monday through Friday to project sites as required

Qualifications

  • Previous experience operating drill rigs or heavy construction equipment required
  • Experience in transmission line, utility, foundation, or civil construction preferred
  • Mechanical aptitude with the ability to understand drilling equipment and perform routine maintenance
  • Ability to interpret construction plans, layouts, and grade stakes preferred
  • Ability to work safely around underground and overhead utilities
  • Ability to lift up to 75 pounds and perform physical labor as needed
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and terrain conditions
  • Strong work ethic, reliability, and commitment to safety
  • Valid driver's license required
  • Must pass pre-employment drug screening and background check

Preferred Qualifications

  • CDL Class A preferred
  • OSHA 10 certification preferred
  • Previous experience operating:
    • Altec or Texoma drill rigs
    • Track-mounted drill rigs
    • Foundation drilling equipment
  • Experience working on transmission line or utility infrastructure projects
  • Experience towing heavy equipment

Work Environment

This position works primarily outdoors on active utility construction sites with exposure to varying weather conditions, uneven terrain, noise, vibration, and heavy equipment. Overnight travel Monday through Friday, overtime, and occasional weekend work may be required based on project schedules.

Why Cobalt Civil

Cobalt Civil offers competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, career advancement opportunities, and the opportunity to work on critical transmission infrastructure projects throughout the region. We are committed to providing a safe, team-oriented work environment where employees can build long-term careers in the utility construction industry.

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